Facilities-management employee sues University of Washington

A University of Washington facilities-management employee is suing the university, alleging it didn't do enough to protect her from a supervisor who she says harassed her about her sexual orientation . The lawsuit filed in King County Superior Court contends that James Lukehart, began harassing Debra Loeffelholz, by "inappropriately and pointedly" asking her if she was gay. The lawsuit asserts that the university knew about Lukehart's conduct but didn't act until November 2007, when a superior told Lukehart he'd have to agree to a demotion or have his job terminated. Lukehart agreed to be demoted. Loeffelholz contends that Lukehart took measures to prevent her from advancing at the university and attempted to have her fired or demoted.